A new nationwide poll shows growing concern among Asian American and Pacific Islander adults about immigration conditions in the United States. Many respondents say recent policies and enforcement actions have changed how they view the country as a place for immigrants.
The survey, conducted by AAPI Data and The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, finds that a majority of AAPI adults believe the United States is no longer the same “land of opportunity” it once was for immigrants.
According to the poll, about six in ten AAPI adults say the country used to be a great place for immigrants but no longer is. Only around three in ten say the US remains a great destination for immigrants today. A small share, about 5%, say it was never a welcoming country for immigrants.
The findings reflect the impact of more than a year of strict immigration enforcement policies under the Trump administration. Many respondents reported that they or someone they know has experienced disruption linked to immigration status. This includes detention or deportation, carrying proof of legal status at all times, cancelled travel plans, or major changes in daily routines.
Researchers say these experiences suggest that immigration policy is affecting not only undocumented migrants but also legal residents and naturalized citizens in immigrant-heavy communities.
The survey also highlights differences within the AAPI population. About half of South Asian adults reported knowing someone who began carrying documentation to prove legal status or citizenship in the past year. This rate is higher than among other AAPI groups.
Experts say this reflects a broader sense of uncertainty. Many immigrants, even those with legal status, report feeling that their presence in the country is being questioned. This has led to what some describe as a “better safe than sorry” mindset, where people take extra precautions in daily life.
One example comes from immigrants who now carry green cards or passports at all times, even for routine activities. Some international students have also delayed travel to visit family abroad due to concerns about visa complications or border checks.
AAPI Data founder Karthick Ramakrishnan said the results should be seen as a warning sign. He noted that Asian Americans and immigrants have played a major role in shaping the United States and contributing to its economy and culture. He said the data shows growing doubt among long-term residents about whether the country remains welcoming.
The poll also shows how identity plays a complex role for AAPI adults. Many respondents say their family heritage or country of origin is extremely important to who they are. This importance often outweighs their sense of American identity.
Just over half of AAPI adults said their ancestry is central to their identity, while slightly fewer said the same about being American. Even among those born in the United States, many still strongly identify with their family’s cultural background.
Researchers say this reflects the diversity within the AAPI community, which includes both long-established families and recent immigrants from across Asia and the Pacific Islands.
Personal stories from respondents highlight these identity tensions. Some describe feeling deeply connected to both their cultural heritage and their American upbringing. Others say they still feel more tied to their country of origin, even after many years in the US.
The survey also finds that AAPI adults are more likely than the general US population to value cultural diversity as a core part of American identity. Many say the blending of different cultures is essential to what makes the United States unique.
However, rising immigration restrictions and political debate have left some respondents feeling uncertain about the country’s direction. Some express concern that recent policies could weaken diversity and inclusion efforts.
The findings also come ahead of America’s 250th anniversary celebrations, which some respondents view with mixed feelings. While many acknowledge the country’s progress, others feel that current political debates over immigration and identity complicate how they view national pride.
Researchers say the results reflect a broader national conversation about immigration, identity, and belonging. With immigration policies continuing to evolve, the experiences of AAPI communities offer insight into how these changes are felt on a personal level.
The poll was conducted among 1,075 AAPI adults across the United States and is considered representative of the broader population. It carries a margin of error of plus or minus 4.4 percentage points.
